Rachel Flynn

Burned area in Brazil's Amazon fell sharply in 2025 to 3.1 million hectares, the lowest level since 1985, following a record 15.8 million hectares in 2024. MapBiomas attributes the decline to fewer fires nationwide and cooler La Niña conditions, though warns that upcoming El Niño patterns may heighten fire risks. The reduction supports President Lula’s re-election narrative after pledging to reverse deforestation, although he faces criticism over authorizing oil exploration near the Amazon. The data reflect broader national improvements, with total burned area in Brazil dropping from 30 million hectares in 2024 to 12.7 million in 2025.

A passenger was seriously injured after a window on a Ryanair-operated flight broke in midair, causing a rapid decompression and nearly pulling him outside the aircraft. His wife and two other passengers managed to hold him until the plane returned to Thessaloniki. Witnesses described a loud explosion and severe cabin pressure loss, while a technical adviser suggested a possible engine failure that sent debris into the window, though investigators have not confirmed this. The 61-year-old victim remains hospitalized as an international investigation involving Greek, U.S., and European aviation authorities continues.

A Ryanair passenger was nearly pulled out of a shattered cabin window after an apparent decompression shortly after takeoff from Thessaloniki, prompting his wife and other passengers to hold him inside as the aircraft rapidly descended. The man suffered serious injuries and repeated loss of consciousness, while passengers reported chaos, oxygen mask deployment and what sounded like an explosion. A preliminary assessment suggested possible engine failure leading to debris striking the window, though this remains unconfirmed. The plane landed safely, and international aviation authorities, including Boeing, the FAA and EASA, are assisting Greece’s air safety agency in investigating the incident.

A Ryanair passenger was nearly pulled out of a shattered cabin window after a suspected engine failure caused rapid decompression shortly after take-off from Thessaloniki. His wife and other passengers held him until he was pulled back inside, with the man suffering serious injuries and repeated loss of consciousness. The flight returned safely to the airport, and an international investigation is under way involving Greek, US and European aviation authorities as well as Boeing.